Resources and Information in Response to Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Virtual Meetings and Resources

In response to Coronavirus, we have been instructed to limit our face-to-face interactions with others. For many that includes the attendance to vital support groups. Luckily, there are still ways to participate in meetings and groups remotely. Many of the meetings are available in English and Spanish and can be searched by the type of meeting. The websites below offer resources to virtually access.

SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

What To Do To Occupy Yourself While in Quarantine

However, remember that if you do not feel like being productive and engaging in projects during this time it is perfectly fine too! Trying to manage and cope through this is new for all of us, you need to do what works for you during this time.

Ways To Cope with Anxiety During This Uncertain Time

If you feel anxious there are apps like Calm which can help you de-stress

Some Advice For Parents

Teens are heavily influenced by how they see adults acting. When teens see their caregivers responding to COVID-19 calmly and confidently they, in turn, are creating a healthier and less frightening environment for their teens.

During this time it is important to remember teens often respond to stress in varying ways without outright verbalizing it. Some signs they may be stressed and need some reassurance and support include

Excessive worry or sadness

Unhealthy eating or sleeping habits

Irritability and “acting out” behaviors

Poor school performance or avoiding school

Difficulty with attention and concentration

Avoidance of activities enjoyed in the past

Unexplained headaches or body pain

Use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs

If your teen is exhibiting any of these or you simply want to provide more support you can do the following:

Talk with your teen about the COVID-19 outbreak. The CDC has a fact sheet you can utilize and answer the questions your child poses.

Reassure your child or teen that they are safe. Let them know it is ok if they feel upset. Share with them how you deal with your own stress so that they can learn how to cope from you.

For more information on alcohol use in relation to COVID-19 click HERE

Sources: CDC, UCONN Health, SAMHSA

Unfortunately, sexual minorities often face social stigma, discrimination, and other challenges like violence and harassment, not experienced by those who identify as heterosexual. These challenges mixed with other stressors lead sexual minorities to be at an increased risk for substance use. According to SAMHSA, substance use disorders affect 20 to 30% of the LGBTQIA+ population, compared to 8.4% of the general population. People who identify as gay and lesbian are more than twice as likely as those who identify as heterosexual to have a severe alcohol or tobacco use disorder. That number raises to three times as likely for people who identify as bisexual, and five times as likely for people who are unsure how to identify their sexuality (National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2017). The Vernon ROCKS Coalition wants everyone to know there are supportive people, and resources to help and you are not alone. We stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community. Visit our website for more information. www.vernonrocksct.org/pride-month/... See MoreSee Less